THE HARMONIST
Sun Force

2020

PERFUMER
Guillaume Flavigny

pomelo
bulgarian rose
saffron

cardamom
frankincense
honey

benzoin
musk
sandalwood
vetiver

Sun Force was one of The Harmonist that I tried a while back, but because I had several full bottles of the brand, it sort of got lost in the mix. Now I wore the sample properly again (in warm weather I may add), I’m surprised at how nice it is.

Which is surprising, given it’s comparisons (looking at Fragrantica) to YSL La Nuit De L’Homme, which I don’t love. It’s easy to see where the similarities arise, but Sun Force doesn’t get as cloying. That being said, my only criticism for Sun Force is that I’d still prefer it a bit less sweet.

It’s an interesting mix of spices, citrus and sweetness. You get a strong waft of the honey, benzoin, sandalwood side of the composition, and with the cardamom being prominent (as well as saffron) it’s reminiscent of Middle Eastern perfumery a bit. However, the fresher, sort of watery and citrussy component is quite strong for me as well. At least at first, because there is a point where Sun Force becomes a definite amber-honey fragrance on my skin.

There’s also a comparison to MFK Amyris Homme on Fragrantica. I think it appeals to the same audience, as a versatile, quiet sexy, but not overly bold and slightly masculine leaning scent. I think appealing to a designer-audience as well. I do feel that Sun Force leans much more into the ambery and spicy side and is a more interesting mix than the safer Amyris Homme.

Stunning release, especially for those wanting a versatile fragrance. I found it a tad too sweet in high heat, but for most of the year and most occassions it should be fine. Price-wise, it’s up there and I don’t know if I would recommend it over the other higher-priced The Harmonists (Moon Glory, Yin Transformation and Royal Earth Parfum), but they are all wins in my book!